Helping software engineers to relocate during my last 12 years and working with various hiring companies (from Japan to Canada), I tried to connect the dots and share my predictions for the job relocation market in 2025.

These insights are mainly for the Tech industry. But, many of these trends will likely apply to other sectors, too.

So, let’s break it down.

1. Competition will become more intense

We’ll see a significant rise in applicants for each position. This increased competition will make it harder for job seekers to stand out and increase their workload for companies that hire talent from abroad.

2. Relocation-friendly job ads will decrease and become more segmented

Not all markets will be equally open to hiring talent from abroad. Fewer jobs will explicitly support relocation. Opportunities will be concentrated in specific industries and regions.

3. Remote work will become a pathway to relocation

Securing a remote job first might be the key to relocating. Over time, this could prompt them to offer you a relocation opportunity. You also might start with a remote contract. Later, transfer it to an Employer of Record (EOR) in your desired country. This model is popular for moving to Canada with a remote US contract.

4. "Job seeker" visas will gain more traction

Countries like Germany, Austria, Portugal or UAE are expanding job seeker visa programs. These programs will allow individuals to relocate without a job, shifting the risk from employers to job seekers, who can then search for work after moving to the country.

5. Relocation may involve extra steps or intermediary companies

Your path to your dream employer might be longer. It may involve intermediary or consulting companies that handle payroll for larger corporations. You may first work for a third-party employer, not your target company.

6. "Digital nomad" visas will make relocation more independent

These visas allow professionals to live and work remotely in another country. They offer an alternative to employer-sponsored relocation. It helps job seekers test a new location without committing to a full move.

7. Prioritizing opportunities over salary

For candidates, the value of relocation will grow. Salary and compensation will matter. But, relocation and career growth may matter more.It might lead to moderate salaries and less competitive relocation packages employers offer.

8. Europe leads as the top destination for tech talent

European countries, like the Netherlands, Germany and the UK, would be the top choice for tech talent (based on Relocate.me data for 2024). It's based on the not-so-complex immigration process, work-life balance, social benefits, etc.

That said, the 2025 job relocation market will have both challenges and opportunities.

If you're adaptable and persistent, there will be plenty of chances to grow and achieve your relocation goals.

Would you be eager to relocate for a job this year? Where and why?